PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS

INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space

LEARNING
MODULE 05: –
Force System in
Space

AMT 3102-
ENGINEERING MECHANICS

Prepared by:
ENGR. CARMELITA C. ARBOZO

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Title Page Allotted Time
Introduction 4 15 minutes
Rectangular Components of Force in Space 4 15 minutes
➢ Example Solved Problems 7 60 minutes
Force Defined by its Magnitude and Two 20 minutes
8
Points on Its Line of Action
Resultant of Forces in Space 9 10 minutes
Resultant of Concurrent Forces in Space 9 20 minutes
➢ Example Solved Problems 10 - 12 60 minutes
Forces and Equilibrium in Space 13 15 minutes
Moments of Force About an Axis 13 15 minutes
Example Solved Problems 14 - 16 60 minutes
➢ Module Activity No. 5 Forces in Space 17 `80 minutes
➢ Plate No. 5 Forces in Space 18 80 minutes
Total Number of Minutes 450 minutes

TABLES OF REFERENCES
References No.
Materials (textbooks, references, journals, online) 1
Singer, Ferdinand L., Engineering Mechanics: Statics and Dynamics 2
Mcgill, David J., Engineering Mechanics: Statics and an Intro to Dynamics 3
Singer, F.L (1954). Engineering Mechanics (2nd Ed.) New York: Harpens
4
and Row, Publishers, Inc.
Hibbeler, R.C. (2010) Engineering Mechanics (12th Ed.) New Jersey:
5
Pearson Prentice Hall
Beer, F.P. & Johnston, Jr. E.R. (2016) Vector Mechanics for Engineers 6
Static (11th Ed.) New York: McGraw-Hill Education

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space
This module discusses the Introduction of Force System in Space, Rectangular
Components of a Force in Space, Force Defined by its Magnitude and Two Points on its
Line of Action, Forces and Equilibrium in Space and Moments of a Force about an axis.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Course Learning Outcomes [CLO]

0 Module Learning Outcomes [MLO]

CLO1. Apply the knowledge of
mathematics to solve complex
mechanics problems; Topic Learning Outcomes [TLO]
CLO 04 . Applying learned theories in MLO 01.Solve Moment & Resultant of a
Force System in Space by demonstrating TLO 01. Solving resultants and moments of
physics by distinguishing forces on an axis through foloowing proper
the proper method to get both.
2D and 3D models MLO 02. Solve Equilibrium Problems of both
methodology.
CLO5. Demonstrate critical and creative Concurrent and Non-concurrent Space TLO 02. Assess ways computing problems
thinking in engineering mechanics by Froces through practising sample problems. regarding concurrent space force by
anlyzing and designing trusses, beams, demonstrating some sample problems.
and frames.. TLO 03. Assess ways computing problems
CLO 06. Analyzing mechanics regarding non-concurrent space force by
problems by examining the stressess of demonstrating some sample problems.
trusses, beams and frames.
CLO 10. Demonstrate honestly through
doing individual/group task reuired for
this course.

HONESTY CLAUSE

As a state college, students are expected to uphold and integrity, principle and self-
respect, using their knowledge and skills for the enhancement of human welfare and
environment; being honest and fair in their class activity, requirements and other
projects will not engage in cheating or plagiarism. The institution undertakes as a
modest and nominal ideal of behaviors in academic matters that students be
straightforward and that they distribute for deposit solely the produce of their particular
efforts.

Introduction of Force System in Space

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space

The problems considered in the previous chapter involved only two dimensions;
they were formulated and solved in a single plane. In this chapter, we will discuss
problems involving the three dimensions of space.

Rectangular Components of a Force in Space

Consider a force F acting at the origin O of the system of rectangular coordinates x, y,

and z. To define the direction of F, we draw the vertical plane OBAC containing F (Fig.
5.1 a). This plane passes through the vertical y axis; its orientation is defined by the
angle ϕ it forms with the xy plane. The direction of F within the plane is defined by the
angle 𝜃𝑦 that F forms with the y axis. We can resolve the force F into a vertical
component 𝐹𝑦 and a horizontal component 𝐹ℎ ; this operation, shown in Fig. 5.1 b, is
carried out in plane OBAC according to the rules developed earlier. The corresponding
scalar components are

Figure 5.1 b Figure 5.1 c

Figure 5.1 a
Resolve F into horizontal Resolve 𝐹ℎ into rectangular
A force F in an components
xyz coordinates and vertical components
system. 𝐹𝑦 = 𝐹𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝜃𝑦 𝐹𝑥 = 𝐹ℎ cos ∅ = 𝐹 sin 𝜃𝑦 cos ∅

𝐹ℎ = 𝐹 sin 𝜃𝑦 𝐹𝑧 = 𝐹ℎ 𝑠𝑖𝑛∅ = 𝐹 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃𝑦 𝑠𝑖𝑛∅

The given force F thus has been resolved into three rectangular vector
components 𝐹𝑥 , 𝐹𝑦 , 𝐹𝑧 which are directed along the three coordinate axes. We can now
apply the Pythagorean theorem to the triangles OAB and OCD of Fig. 5.1c:

𝐹 2 = (𝑂𝐴)2 = (𝑂𝐵)2 + (𝐵𝐴)2 = 𝐹𝑦 2 + 𝐹ℎ 2

𝐹ℎ 2 = (𝑂𝐶)2 = (𝑂𝐷)2 + (𝐷𝐶)2 = 𝐹𝑥 2 + 𝐹𝑧 2

Eliminating 𝐹ℎ 2 from these two equations and solving for F, we obtain the following
relation between the magnitude of F and its rectangular scalar components:

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space
Magnitude of force in Space

𝑭𝟐 = 𝑭 𝒙 𝟐 + 𝑭 𝒚 𝟐 + 𝑭 𝒛 𝟐
Equation 5.1
𝟐 𝟐 𝟐
𝑭 = √𝑭𝒙 + 𝑭𝒚 + 𝑭𝒛

Rectangular Components in Space

The relationship between the force F and its three components 𝐹𝑥 , 𝐹𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐹𝑧 is more
easily visualized if we draw a “box” having 𝐹𝑥 , 𝐹𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐹𝑧 for edges, as shown in Fig.
5.2. The force F is then represented by the main diagonal OA of this box. Figure 5.2 b
shows the right triangle OAB used to derive the first of the formulas 𝐹𝑦 = 𝐹𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 : In
Fig. 5.2 a and c, two other right triangles have also been drawn: OAD and OAE. These
triangles occupy positions in the box comparable with that of triangle OAB. Denoting
by 𝜃𝑥 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝜃𝑧 , respectively, the angles that F forms with the x and z axes, we can derive
two formulas similar to 𝐹𝑦 = 𝐹𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 . We thus write

Fig. 5.2 (a) Force F in a three-dimensional box, showing its angle with the x axis; (b)
force F and its angle with the y axis; (c) force F and its angle with the z axis.

Scalar components of a force F

𝐹𝑥 = 𝐹𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑥 𝐹𝑦 = 𝐹𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 𝐹𝑧 = 𝐹𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑧 Equation 5.2

The three angles 𝜃𝑥 , 𝜃𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝜃𝑧 define the direction of the force F; they are more
commonly used for this purpose than the angles 𝜃𝑦 and ϕ introduced at the beginning
of this section. The cosines of 𝜃𝑥 , 𝜃𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝜃𝑧 are known as the direction cosines of the
force F
Directions cosines
𝐹𝑥 = 𝐹𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑥 𝐹𝑦 = 𝐹𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 𝐹𝑧 = 𝐹𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑧
𝐹𝑥 Equation 5.3
𝐹𝑦 𝐹𝑧
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑧 =
𝐹 𝐹 𝐹

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space

Introducing the unit vectors 𝑖̂, 𝑗̂, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑘̂

which are directed respectively along the
x, y, and z axes (Figure 5.3), we can
express F in the form

Vector expression of a force F

Figure 5.3 The three-unit
̂ Equation 5.4 vectors 𝑖̂, 𝑗̂ , 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑘̂ lie along the
⃗⃗ = 𝑭𝒙 𝒊̂ + 𝑭𝒚 𝒋̂ + 𝑭𝒛 𝒌
𝑭 three coordinate axes x, y, z,
respectively
Where 𝐹𝑥 , 𝐹𝑦 , 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐹𝑧 are scalar components.

𝐹⃗ = 𝐹𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑥 𝑖̂ + 𝐹𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 𝑗̂ + 𝐹𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑧 𝑘̂

𝐹⃗ = 𝐹(𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑥 𝑖̂ + 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 𝑗̂ + 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑧 𝑘̂) Equation 5.5

𝐹⃗ = 𝐹λ
Where
λ = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑥 𝑖̂ + 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 𝑗̂ + 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑧 𝑘̂ Equation 5.6

λ is a unit vector whose magnitude is

equal to 1 and whose direction is the
same as that of ⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐹 . The vector λ is
referred to as unit vector along the line of
action of ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐹 . The components of the unit
vector λ are respectively equal to the Figure. 5.4 Force F can be expressed
direction of cosines of the line of action of as the product of its magnitude F
𝐹⃗ . and a unit vector l in the direction of
F. Also shown are the components of
λ𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑥 , λ𝑦 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑 λ𝑧 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑧 Equation 5.7 F and its unit vector.

λ𝑥 2 + λ 𝑦 2 + λ𝑧 1 = 1

Relationship among direction cosines

The coordinates direction angles are related so that only two of the three angles are
independent of one another.

𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝜃𝑥 + 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝜃𝑦 + 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝜃𝑧 = 1 Equation 5.8

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space
Example 5.1 A force of 500N forms angles of 60°, 45°, and 120°, respectively, with
the x, y, and z axes. Find the components 𝐹𝑥 , 𝐹𝑦 , 𝑎𝑛𝑑𝐹𝑧 of the force and express the
force in terms of unit vector.
Given: F = 500N, 𝜃𝑥 = 60°, 𝜃𝑦 = 45°, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝜃𝑧 = 120°

Required: 𝐹𝑥 =?, 𝐹𝑦 =? , 𝐹𝑧 =?
Solution:
𝐹𝑥 = 𝐹𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑥 = 500𝑁 cos 60° = +250𝑁
𝐹𝑦 = 𝐹𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 = 500𝑁 cos 45° = + 354𝑁

𝐹𝑧 = 𝐹𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑧 = 500𝑁 cos 120° = −250𝑁

𝐹 = (250𝑁)𝑖̂ + (354𝑛)𝑗̂ − (250𝑁)𝑘̂

Example 5.2 A force 𝐹⃗ has the components 𝐹𝑥 = 20𝑙𝑏, 𝐹𝑦 = −30𝑙𝑏, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐹𝑧 = 60𝑙𝑏.
Determine its magnitude F and the angles 𝜃𝑥 , 𝜃𝑦 , 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝜃𝑧 it forms with the coordinate
axes.
Given: 𝐹𝑥 = 20𝑙𝑏, 𝐹𝑦 = −30𝑙𝑏, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐹𝑧 = 60𝑙𝑏

Required: 𝜃𝑥 =? , 𝜃𝑦 =? , 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝜃𝑧 =?
Solution:

𝐹 = √𝐹𝑥 2 + 𝐹𝑦 2 + 𝐹𝑧 2

= √(20𝑙𝑏)2 + (−30𝑙𝑏)2 + (60𝑙𝑏)2

= √400𝑙𝑏 2 + 900𝑙𝑏 2 + 3,600𝑙𝑏 2

𝐹 = √4,900𝑙𝑏 2 = 70𝑙𝑏

𝐹𝑥 20𝑙𝑏 𝐹𝑦 −30𝑙𝑏 𝐹𝑧 60𝑙𝑏

𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑥 = = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 = = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑧 = =
𝐹 70𝑙𝑏 𝐹 70𝑙𝑏 𝐹 70𝑙𝑏
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑥 = 0.286 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 = −0.429 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑧 = 0.857
𝜃𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 0.286 𝜃𝑦 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 (−0.429) 𝜃𝑧 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 0.857

𝜽𝒙 = 𝟕𝟑. 𝟒° 𝜽𝒛 = 𝟑𝟏°
𝜽𝒚 = 𝟏𝟏𝟓. 𝟒°

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space
Force Defined by its Magnitude and Two Points on its Line of Action
In many applications, the direction of a force F is defined by the coordinates of two
points, M (𝑥1 , 𝑦1 , 𝑧1 ) and N (𝑥2 , 𝑦2 , 𝑧2 ), located on its line of action (Fig5.5). Consider
the vector⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝑀𝑁 joining M and N and of the same sense as a force 𝐹⃗ . Denoting its scalar
components by 𝑑𝑥 , 𝑑𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑑𝑧 , respectively, we write
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 𝑑𝑥 𝑖̂ + 𝑑𝑦 𝑗̂ + 𝑑𝑧 𝑘̂
𝑀𝑁
We can obtain a unit vector λ along the line
of action of 𝐹⃗ (i.e., along the line MN) by
dividing the vector ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝑀𝑁 by its magnitude
MN. Substituting for 𝑀𝑁 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ from Eq. above
and observing that MN is equal to the
distance d from M to N, we have
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝑀𝑁 1
𝛌= = (𝑑 𝑖̂ + 𝑑𝑦 𝑗̂ + 𝑑𝑧 𝑘̂) Equation5.9
𝑀𝑁 𝑑 𝑥
Recalling that 𝐹⃗ is equal to the product of F and
, λ we have
𝐹
𝐹⃗ = 𝐹𝛌 = (𝑑 𝑖̂ + 𝑑𝑦 𝑗̂ + 𝑑𝑧 𝑘̂)
𝑑 𝑥
Fig. 5.5 A case where the line of action of force F is
It follows that the scalar components of F
determined by the two points M and N. We can
are, respectively,
calculate the components of F and its direction
𝐹𝑑𝑥 𝐹𝑑𝑦 𝐹𝑑𝑧 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ .
cosines from the vector 𝑀𝑁
𝐹𝑥 = 𝐹𝑦 = 𝐹𝑧 =
𝑑 𝑑 𝑑

Equation 5.10

The relations in equations above considerably simplify the determination of the

components of a force 𝐹⃗ of given magnitude F when the line of action of 𝐹⃗ is
defined by two points M and N. The calculation consists of first subtracting the
coordinates of M from those of N, then determining the components of the vector
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝑀𝑁 and the distance d from M to N. Thus,

𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥2 − 𝑥1 𝑑𝑦 = 𝑦2 − 𝑦1 𝑑𝑧 = 𝑧2 − 𝑧1

𝑑 = √𝑑𝑥 2 + 𝑑𝑦 2 + 𝑑𝑧 2

Substituting for F and for 𝑑𝑥 . 𝑑𝑦 , 𝑑𝑧 and d into the relations in Eq. (5.10), we obtain
the components 𝐹𝑥 , 𝐹𝑦 , 𝐹𝑧 of the force. We can then obtain the angles 𝜃𝑥 , 𝜃𝑣 , 𝜃𝑧 that
F forms with the coordinate axes from Eqs (5.3). Comparing Eqs. (5.7) and (5.9)
we can write.

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space

Direction cosine of Force.

𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑧 Equation 5.11
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑧 =
𝑑 𝑑 𝑑

In other words, we can determine the angles 𝜃𝑥 , 𝜃𝑦 , 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝜃𝑧 directly from the
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ .
components and the magnitude of the vector 𝑀𝑁

Resultant of Forces in Space

When two or more forces act on a particle in three-dimensional space, we can obtain
the rectangular components of their resultant R by adding the corresponding
components of the given forces algebraically.
Components of the resultant

𝑅𝑥 = ∑ 𝐹𝑥 𝑅𝑦 = ∑ 𝐹𝑦 𝑅𝑧 = ∑ 𝐹𝑧 Equation 5.12

The magnitude of the resultant and the angles 𝜃𝑥 , 𝜃𝑦 , 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝜃𝑧 that the resultant forms
with the coordinate axes are obtained using the method discussed earlier in this
section. We end up with
Resultant of concurrent forces in space
Magnitude of the Resultant

Equation 5.13
𝑅 = √𝑅𝑥 2 + 𝑅𝑦 2 + 𝑅𝑧 2

𝑅𝑥 𝑅𝑦 𝑅𝑧
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑧 = Equation 5.14
𝑅 𝑅 𝑅

Example 5.3 A tower guy wire is anchored by means of a bolt at A. The tension in
the wire is 2500 N. Determine (a) the components 𝐹𝑥 , 𝐹𝑦 , 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐹𝑧 of the force acting on
the bolt and (b) the angles 𝜃𝑥 , 𝜃𝑦 , 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝜃𝑧 defining the direction of the force

Given: Required: 𝑎) 𝐹𝑥 =? , 𝐹𝑦 =? , 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐹𝑧 =?

𝑏) 𝜃𝑥 =? , 𝜃𝑦 =? , 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝜃𝑧 =?

Figure 5.6

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space
Solution:
a) Components
The line of action of the force acting on the
bolt passes through points A and B, and the
force is directed from A to B. The
components of the vector ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐴𝐵 , which has the
same direction as the force, are

𝑑𝑥 = −40𝑚, 𝑑𝑦 = +80𝑚, 𝑑𝑧 = +30𝑚

The total distance AB is

𝐴𝐵 = 𝑑 = √𝑑𝑥 2 + 𝑑𝑦 2 + 𝑑𝑧 2

𝐴𝐵 = 𝑑 = √(−40𝑚)2 + (80𝑚)2 + (30𝑚)2

𝐴𝐵 = 𝑑 = √1600𝑚2 + 6400𝑚2 + 900𝑚2

𝐴𝐵 = 𝑑 = √8900𝑚2

𝐴𝐵 = 𝑑 = 94.3𝑚
𝐹𝑑𝑥 2,500𝑁(−40𝑚) Figure 5.6a
𝐹𝑥 = = = −1,060.44𝑁
𝑑 94.3𝑚 Cable force acting on bolt at A and its unit
𝐹𝑑𝑦 2,500𝑁(80𝑚) vector
𝐹𝑦 = = = 2,120.89𝑁
𝑑 94.3𝑚
𝐹𝑑𝑧 2,500𝑁(30𝑚)
𝐹𝑧 = = = 795.33𝑁
𝑑 94.3𝑚

⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐴𝐵
Introducing the unit vector λ = 𝐴𝐵 (Fig. 5.6a), you can
express F in terms of ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐴𝐵 as
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐴𝐵
𝐹⃗ = 𝐹 λ = F
𝐴𝐵
𝐴𝐵 = (−40𝑚)𝑖̂ + (80𝑚)𝑗̂ + (30𝑚)𝑘̂
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗

2500𝑁
𝐹⃗ = [(−40𝑚)𝑖̂ + (80𝑚)𝑗̂ + (30𝑚)𝑘̂]
94.3𝑚
𝐹⃗ = −1,060.44𝑁 + 2,120.89𝑁 + 795.33𝑁
The components of Force, therefore are
𝐹𝑥 = −1,060.44𝑁 𝐹𝑦 = 2,120.89𝑁 𝐹𝑧 = 705.33𝑁

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space

b) Direction of the force

𝐹𝑥 −1,060.44𝑁
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑥 = = = −0.424
𝐹 2500𝑁
𝜃𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 = −0.424

𝜃𝑥 = 115.1°

𝐹𝑦 2,120.89𝑁
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 = = = 0.848
𝐹 2,500𝑁
𝜃𝑦 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 0.848

𝜃𝑦 = 32°

795.33𝑁
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑧 = = 0.3181 Fig. 5.6b
2,500𝑁
Direction angles for cable AB.
𝜃𝑧 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 0.328

𝜃𝑧 = 71.45°

Example 5.4 Determine the magnitude of the resultant, its pointing and its direction
cosines for the following system of non-coplanar, concurrent forces. 300 lb (+3, -4,
+6); 400 lb (-2, +4, -5); 200 lb (-4, +5, -3).
Given: 300 lb (+3, -4, +6); 400 lb (-2, +4, -5); 200 lb (-4, +5, -3).
Required: 𝑅, 𝜃𝑥 , 𝜃𝑦 , 𝜃𝑧
Solution:
Distance:

𝑑 = √𝑑𝑥 2 + 𝑑𝑦 2 + 𝑑𝑧 2

𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝑭 = 𝟑𝟎𝟎𝒍𝒃 𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝟒𝟎𝟎𝒍𝒃 𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝟐𝟎𝟎𝒍𝒃

𝑑 = √(3)2 + (−4)2 + (6)2 𝑑 = √(−2)2 + (4)2 + (−5)2 𝑑 = √(−4)2 + (5)2 + (−3)2

𝑑 = √9 + 16 + 36 = √61 𝑑 = √4 + 16 + 25 = √45 𝑑 = √16 + 25 + 9 = √50

𝑑 = 7.81 𝑑 = 6.71 𝑑 = 7.07

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space
Components of given forces
𝑭𝒅𝒙 𝑭𝒅𝒚 𝑭𝒅𝒛
𝑭𝒙 = 𝑭𝒚 = 𝑭𝒛 =
𝒅 𝒅 𝒅
300𝑙𝑏(3) 300(−4) 300(6)
𝐹1𝑥 = = 115.24𝑙𝑏 𝐹1𝑦 = = −𝟏53.65𝑙𝑏 𝐹1𝑧 = = 230.47𝑙𝑏
7.81 7.81 7.81
400(−2) 400(4) 400(−5)
𝐹2𝑥 = = −119.22𝑙𝑏 𝐹2𝑦 = = 238.45𝑙𝑏 𝐹2𝑧 = = −298.06𝑙𝑏
6.71 6.71 6.71
200(−4) 200(5) 200(−3)
𝐹3𝑥 = = −113.15𝑙𝑏 𝐹3𝑦 = = 141.44𝑙𝑏 𝐹3𝑧 = = −84.87𝑙𝑏
7.07 7.07 7.07
∑ 𝑅𝑥 = 115.24𝑙𝑏 − 119.22𝑙𝑏 − 112.15𝑙𝑏 = −116.13𝑙𝑏

∑ 𝑅𝑦 = −153.65𝑙𝑏 + 238.45𝑙𝑏 + 141.44𝑙𝑏 = 226.24𝑙𝑏

∑ 𝑅𝑧 = 230.27𝑙𝑏 − 298.06𝑙𝑏 − 84.87𝑙𝑏 = −152.66𝑙𝑏

2
𝑅 = √(∑ 𝑅𝑥 )2 + (∑ 𝑅𝑦 ) + (∑ 𝑅𝑧 )2 = √(−116.13𝑙𝑏)2 + (226.24𝑙𝑏)2 + (−152.66𝑙𝑏)2

𝑅 = √13486.1769𝑙𝑏 2 + 51184.5376𝑙𝑏 2 + 23305.0756𝑙𝑏 2 = √87975.7901𝑙𝑏 2

𝑹 = 𝟐𝟗𝟔. 𝟔𝟏𝒍𝒃

Direction cosines of the resultant

∑ 𝑅𝑥 ∑ 𝑅𝑦 ∑ 𝑅𝑧
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑧 =
𝑅 𝑅 𝑅
−116.13𝑙𝑏 226.24lb −152.66𝑙𝑏
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑦 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃𝑧 =
296.61𝑙𝑏 296.61𝑙𝑏 296.61𝑙𝑏
𝜃𝑥 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 − 0.3915 𝜃𝑦 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 0.7628 𝜃𝑧 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 − 0.5147

𝜃𝑦 = 40.3° 𝜃𝑧 = 120.98°
𝜃𝑥 = 113.05°

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space
Forces and Equilibrium in Space
According to the definition given in previous topic, a particle A is in equilibrium
if the resultant of all the forces acting on A is zero. The components 𝑅𝑥 , 𝑅𝑦 , 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑅𝑧 of
the resultant of forces in space are given by equations (5.13); when the components
of the resultant are zero, we have

∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0 ∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0 ∑ 𝐹𝑧 = 0 Equation 5.15

Equations (5.15) represent the necessary and sufficient conditions for the
equilibrium of a particle in space. We can use them to solve problems dealing with the
equilibrium of a particle involving no more than three unknowns.
The first step in solving three-dimensional equilibrium problems is to draw a
free-body diagram showing the particle in equilibrium and all of the forces acting on it.
You can then write the equations of equilibrium (5.15) and solve them for three
unknowns. In the more common types of problems, these unknowns will represent
(1) the three components of a single force or
(2) the magnitude of three forces, each of known direction.
The sum of moment is zero

∑ 𝑀𝑥 = 0 ∑ 𝑀𝑦 = 0 ∑ 𝑀𝑧 = 0

Moments of a Force about an axis

𝑀𝑦 = 𝑧𝐹𝑥 ± 𝑥𝐹𝑧 𝑀𝑧 = 𝑦𝐹𝑥 ± 𝑥𝐹𝑦
𝑀𝑥 = 𝑧𝐹𝑦 ± 𝑦𝐹𝑧

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space
Example 5.5 The homogenous plate shown in Figure 5.7a has a mass of 100kg and
is subjected to a force and couple moment along its edges. If it is supported in the
horizontal plane by a roller at A, a ball-and a socket joint at B, and a cord at C,
determine the components of the reaction at these supports.

Given: Required: 𝐴𝑧 , 𝐵𝑥 , 𝐵𝑦 . & 𝐵𝑧

Figure 5.7a
Solution:
Draw the Free Body Diagram
Equations for Equilibrium
Since the three-dimensional geometry is
rather simple. a scalar analysis provides
a direct solution this problem. A force
summation along each axis yields
∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0 ∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0
𝐵𝑥 = 0 𝐵𝑦 = 0

∑ 𝐹𝑧 = 0
𝐴𝑧 + 𝐵𝑧 + 𝑇𝑐 − 300𝑁 − 981𝑁 = 0
𝐴𝑧 + 𝐵𝑧 + 𝑇𝑐 − 1281𝑁 = 0 𝑒𝑞. 1 Figure 5.7b

Recall that the moment of a force about an axis is equal to the product of the force magnitude and the
perpendicular distance (moment arm) from the line of action of the force to the axis. Also, forces that
are parallel to an axis or pass through it create no moment about the axis. Hence, summing moments
about the positive x and y axes, we have
∑ 𝑀𝑥 = 0
𝑇𝑐 (2𝑚) − 981𝑁(1𝑚) + 𝐵𝑧 (2𝑚) = 0 eq. 2

∑ 𝑀𝑦 = 0
300𝑁(1.5𝑚) + 981𝑁(1.5𝑚) − 𝐵𝑧 (3𝑚) − 𝐴𝑧 (3𝑚) − 200𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 = 0
450𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 + 1471.5𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 − 𝐵𝑧 (3𝑚) − 𝐴𝑧 (3𝑚) − 200𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 = 0
1721.5𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 − 𝐵𝑧 (3𝑚) − 𝐴𝑧 (3𝑚) = 0 𝑒𝑞. 3

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space
The components of the force at B can be eliminated if moments are summed about
the x’ and y’ axes. We obtain
∑ 𝑀𝑥′ = 0
981𝑁(1𝑚) + 300𝑁(2𝑚) − 𝐴𝑧 (2𝑚) = 0 𝑒𝑞. 4
981𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 + 600𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 − 𝐴𝑧 (2𝑚) = 0
1581𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 − 𝐴𝑧 (2𝑚) = 𝑜
−𝐴𝑧 (2𝑚) = −1,581𝑁 ∙ 𝑚
−1,581𝑁 ∙ 𝑚
𝐴𝑧 = = 𝟕𝟗𝟎. 𝟓𝑵
−2𝑚

∑ 𝑀𝑦′ = 0
−300𝑁(1.5𝑚) − 981𝑁(1.5𝑚) − 200𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 + 𝑇𝑐 (3𝑚) = 0
−450𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 − 1471.5𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 − 200𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 + 𝑇𝑐 (3𝑚) = 0
−2121.5𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 + 𝑇𝑐 (3𝑚) = 0
𝑇𝑐 (3𝑚) = 2121.5𝑁 ∙ 𝑚
2121.5𝑁 ∙ 𝑚
𝑇𝑐 = = 𝟕𝟎𝟕. 𝟐𝑵
3𝑚

Using equation 3, solve for 𝐵𝑧

1721.5𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 − 𝐵𝑧 (3𝑚) − 𝐴𝑧 (3𝑚) = 0
1721.5𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 − 𝐵𝑧 (3𝑚) − (790.5)(3𝑚) = 0
1721.5𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 − 𝐵𝑧 (3𝑚) − 2371.5𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 = 0
−𝐵𝑧 (3𝑚) − 650𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 = 0
−𝐵𝑧 (3𝑚) = 650𝑁 ∙ 𝑚
650𝑁 ∙ 𝑚
𝐵𝑧 = = −𝟐𝟏𝟔. 𝟔𝟕𝑵
−3𝑚

Example 5.6 Determine the components of reaction that the ball-and socket joint at
A, the smooth journal bearing at B, and the roller support at C exert on the rod
assembly in Figure 5.8 a.

Given: Required: 𝐹𝑐 , 𝐴𝑥 , 𝐴𝑦 , 𝐴𝑧
𝐵𝑥 , 𝐵𝑦 , 𝐵𝑧

15 | P a g e
PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space

Solution:
Figure 5.8a
Draw the Free Body Diagram
Equations of Equilibrium. A direct
solution for 𝐴𝑦 by summing forces
along the y-axis.
∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0
𝐴𝑦 = 0

The force 𝐹𝑐 can be determined

directly by summing moments about
the y-axis. Figure 5.8b

∑ 𝑀𝑦 = 0 Using this result, 𝐵𝑧 can be determined by

summing moments about the x-axis
𝐹𝑐 (0.6𝑚) − 900𝑁(0.4𝑚) = 0
∑ 𝑀𝑥 = 0
𝐹𝑐 (0.6𝑚) − 360𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 = 0 𝐵𝑧 (0.8𝑚) + 600𝑁(1.2𝑚) − 900𝑁(0.4𝑚)
𝐹𝑐 (0.6𝑚) = 360𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 =0
360𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 𝐵𝑧 (0.8𝑚) + 720𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 − 360𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 = 0
𝐹𝑐 = = 600𝑁 𝐵𝑧 (0.8𝑚) + 360𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 = 0
0.6𝑚
𝐵𝑧 (0.8𝑚) = −360𝑁 −450𝑁
∙𝑚
−360𝑁 ∙ 𝑚
𝐵𝑧 = =
0.8𝑚
The negative sign indicates that 𝐵𝑧 acts Thus,
downward. The force 𝐵𝑥 can be found ∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0
by summing moments about the z axis 𝐴𝑥 + 0 = 0
F𝐴 = 0
𝑥
∑ 𝑀𝑧 = 0
−𝐵𝑥 (0.8𝑚) = 0 Finally, using the results of 𝐵𝑧 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐹𝑐
𝐵𝑥 = 0 ∑ 𝐹𝑧 = 0
𝐴𝑧 + (−450𝑁) + 600𝑁 − 900𝑁 = 0
𝐴𝑧 = 750𝑁

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space
Name: Date: Rating: _________
Course, Year & Section: __________________ Schedule: ____________

Module Activity No. 5

Forces in Space

Instruction:
➢ Copy the problem and draw the diagram on a clean sheet of short bond
papers. One problem per page.
➢ Write legibly and avoid erasures.
➢ Box your final answer.
➢ If your done with your problem-solving activity take pictures and submit it in
the LMS assigned to your section.

1. Referring to figure 5.9, determine a) the rectangular components, b) the

angles between A and each of the positive coordinate axes.

Figure 5.9

2. Determine the resultant of the system of concurrent forces having the following
magnitudes passing through the origin and the indicated points: P = 300N, (+12,
+6, -4), T = 500N (-3, -4, +12), F = 250N (+6, -3, -6)

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PHILIPPINE STATE COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS
INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
AIRCRAFT MAINTANCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
Learning Module 05: Force System in Space
Name: Date: Rating: _________
Course, Year & Section: __________________ Schedule: ____________

Plate No. 5
Forces in Space
Instruction:
➢ Copy the problem and draw the diagram on a clean sheet of short bond
papers. One problem per page.
➢ Write legibly and avoid erasures.
➢ Box your final answer.
➢ If your done with your problem-solving activity take pictures and submit it in
the LMS assigned to your section.

1. Find the a) angles 𝜃𝑥 , 𝜃𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑𝜃𝑧 (𝜃𝑥 is the angle between OB and x-axis and so
on.), b) x, y and z scalar components of the force.

Figure 5.10

2. Determine the magnitude of the resultant, its pointing, and its direction cosines
for the following system of non-coplanar concurrent forces. 100 lb (2, 3, 4); 300
lb (–3, –4, 5); 200 lb, (0, 0, 4).

3. The homogenous plate shown in Figure 5.11 has a mass of 110kg and is
subjected to a force and couple moment along its edges. If it is supported in the
horizontal plane by a roller at A, a ball-and a socket joint at B, and a cord at C,
determine the components of the reaction at these supports.

Figure 5.11

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